New path infrastructure to connect Gold Coast before Games

Divisional Councillor Bob La Castra today opened the $3.5million shared path on Boulton Drive and Nerang-Broadbeach Road, which now fully links the Nerang Railway Station to the Gold Coast Sports Precinct in Carrara.

“This path will not only provide an essential linkage for pedestrians and cyclists for the upcoming Commonwealth Games, it is a lasting legacy that will benefit all sports precinct patrons,” he said.

Funding for the section of pathway, from Lakelands Drive to Nerang station, was jointly provided by the City of Gold Coast and the Queensland Government under the Public Domain Improvement Program (PDIP) and the Cycle Network Local Government Grant Program (CNLGG).

Cr La Castra said the 1.3km Carrara path was one of a number of shared path upgrades around the city completed in time for the Games.

“Together, these upgrades total 14 km of pathways, making active travel a safer and more viable option for residents and visitors before, during and after GC2018,” he said.

“We are already an active and healthy city, and paths like this one make it easier for us to walk, cycle and run to destinations.

“The Carrara path creates an easy link from public transport to our marquee sports precinct – another sign we have arrived as a genuine events city.”

Member for Gaven Meaghan Scanlon said that the new shared pathway provides active travel options for GC2018 spectators attending events at Carrara Sports and Leisure Centre, and will be a lasting legacy for locals and visitors attending Suns games at Metricon Stadium.

"It's a short walk to the Centre from Nerang Station and an even quicker trip on two wheels, with bike parking available for use at the venue,” Ms Scanlon said

"There is more than one way for everyone to get around during the Games and spectators can jump on the Games Journey Planner to find out how”.

Minister for the Commonwealth Games Kate Jones said the Public Domain Improvement Program was part of the Embracing 2018 Legacy Program to deliver a range of long-lasting benefits to the community, as well as ensuring the best possible experience for visitors during GC2018.

“We are expecting approximately 672,000 visitors to the Gold Coast during the Games, and our new community infrastructure will help ensure they enjoy their time on the Coast and go home with long lasting and positive memories of the best Commonwealth Games ever,” Minister Jones said.

“The pathway is one of the ways that GC2018 will provide long-term, sustainable benefits to the community beyond the Games, inspiring more proud, active, engaged and inclusive citizens who lead a healthier and more active lifestyle.”